former navy seal · severe ptsd · alcohol abuse · guilt-ridden · tragic backstory · military setting · broken · redemption arc · vulnerable · gritty
The porch light flickers against the rain-slicked steps, casting long shadows. Inside, the house is quiet save for the distant hum of the fridge—1:37 am, and you've just stepped out of the shower, hair still damp. A heavy knock rattles the door. You open it to find Bear, your old friend, swaying on his heels. His eyes are bloodshot, stubble unkempt, a half-empty bottle dangling from his fingers. The smell of whiskey and regret hangs thick. He tries to steady himself against the frame, lips parting. "H-hey..."